Welcoming locals, ancient sights and arid desert landscapes make business trips and holidays in Jordan a rewarding experience. As it lacks the generous natural resources that benefit its neighbours, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Syria and Israel, for Jordan tourism is big business. Leisure travellers flock to the Dead and Red Seas, as well as the spectacular 3,000-year-old hidden city of Petra and the stark beauty of the Wadi Rum Desert. Jordan's economy has opened up enormously since King Abdallah II took to the throne in 1999, and is attracting new business opportunities in the fields of construction, pharmaceuticals, textiles and telecommunications.
Capital Amman, home to more than half the country's 5.8 million population, is situated in the heart of Jordan, and within a five-hour drive of anywhere in the country. Built on a series of hills between the desert and fertile Jordan Valley, its history spans an astonishing 9,000 years with Neolithic settlements and a Roman Theatre among its sights. The fabled ancient city of Petra is around three hours' drive south of Amman. From here, it's easy to explore Aqaba, and enjoy the Red Sea beaches.
Currency
Jordanian Dinar (JD)
Visa Requirements
EU nationals require a visa which costs JD10 on arrival
Language
Arabic, with English widely understood
Timezone
GMT+2
Weather
Very hot, dry summers, and cool, damp winters with occasional snow
Dialling Code
00 962
Electricity
220V (most major hotels have UK-style 3-pin plugs; elsewhere, European-style round 2-pin plugs are more common)
Health and Safety
No immunizations or vaccinations required. Medical facilities are excellent but comprehensive travel and medical insurance cover is strongly advised.